Community Participation Support
Structured, goal-aligned activities that help individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities engage meaningfully in community life — building skills, friendships, and confidence in alignment with their ISP.
High Priority Waiver Services
ODP - Enrolled
All 67 PA Counties
what is cps?
Real participation. Real growth. Real community.
CPS is a Pennsylvania ODP waiver service designed for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities who are working toward greater independence and community inclusion. Rather than activities that happen to our participants, CPS is built around activities they actively choose and lead — guided by their Individual Support Plan (ISP).
Our DSPs partner with each participant to bring their ISP goals to life: making friends at a local rec center, volunteering with a community organization, learning to use public transit, joining a fitness class, or pursuing a passion — whatever full participation looks like for them.
in their words
"I get to do something I picked. Not what someone picked for me."
— Sentiment shared by CPS participants across our PA regions
1:1 or Small Group
ISP-Aligned
what cps looks like
Activities chosen by the individual, supported by our team.
Social Connection
Joining clubs, classes, and group activities where real friendships form — at the library, gym, community center, place of worship, or hobby group.
Volunteer & Civic Roles
Giving back through local volunteer opportunities. Many participants find purpose and pride in being known and counted on by community organizations.
Daily Living Skills
Using public transit, budgeting at the store, ordering at a restaurant, navigating appointments — the skills that unlock greater independence.
Hobbies & Passions
Art, music, sports, theater — whatever the participant loves. We support continued engagement and growth in their chosen interests.
Fitness & Wellness
Walks, gym sessions, group fitness classes, dance — staying active in ways the individual enjoys, with the right level of support.
Learning Opportunities
Adult education, community workshops, library programs, and other lifelong learning that fits the individual's interests and goals.
a day with cps
What a typical session might look like.
No two participants are alike — and neither are two CPS sessions. Here's an example of what an afternoon with our team might look like for an individual whose ISP focuses on community engagement and building friendships.
Every plan is unique. We follow your loved one's ISP and adapt continuously based on their goals, preferences, and progress.
1:00 PM
DSP arrives, connects, plans the day
A warm check-in — how are you feeling, what would you like to do today? Sessions always start with the participant's voice.
1:30 PM
Out the door — community activity
Today: a volunteer shift at the local food pantry. Skills practiced: communication, teamwork, time management.
1:00 PM
Coffee & social time
A coffee shop the participant chose. We practice ordering, paying, and chatting with a friend they've met through their volunteer work.
5:00 PM
Reflection & documentation
Quick recap with the participant on what went well. DSP documents progress against ISP goals before heading home.
Alpha Health Services listened to the issues we were having. My daughter is autistic. She's quick too. Her DSP came in and actually gave me some good tips to use when she was not here. I finally feel like I have some support and someone who understands.
A parent in Pennsylvania
AHS Family Member
explore our services
Three ways we support adults with IDD across PA.
Community Participation Support
Structured engagement in community life, aligned with ISP goals.
In-Home & Community Support
Personalized 1-on-1 support promoting independence and daily living skills.
Companion Support
Consistent, warm companionship and social engagement in familiar settings.
Ready to refer? We'd love to partner with you.
Whether you're an SCO, family member, or AE representative — reach out to start the referral conversation.